Apple VR headset might sport two 8K displays

Will Apple be the company that finally makes VR cool? Photo: Cult of Mac

Apple’s next big thing could be a virtual reality headset.

According to a new report, the iPhone-maker is planning to launch its own headset in 2020 that can handle both AR and VR technology. And in true Apple fashion, it’ll pack some innovations that could finally bring VR into the mainstream.

The project is reportedly codenamed T288 with a tentative launch date set for sometime in 2020. CNET’s sources claim the headset will pack an 8K display for each eye and that it will be completely untethered from a computer or smartphone.

Tim Cook has repeatedly stated that he thinks there’s more promise in augmented reality than virtual reality. With ARKit’s release last year Apple turned the iPhone and iPad into the biggest AR platform. Now it sounds like the company is about to make a major VR play too.

Obviously, Apple’s plans could change between now and 2020 so take this rumor with a healthy dose of skepticism.

The report claims Apple’s headset will connect to a dedicated box powered by a custom Apple-made processor. Apple’s VR box looks like a PC tower but it won’t be an actual Mac. Unlike other VR systems like HTC Vive, you won’t have to install special cameras to detect your location. Apple’s box will have everything built in and use wireless technology to beam info to your headset.